The poaching of a bull elk last week is gaining a lot of attention in Missouri causing a conservation group and state legislators to take notice.

The Conservation Federation of Missouri matched a $1,000 reward offered by Operation Game Thief and then started receiving donations from businesses and individuals concerned about the elk poaching incident. The reward now stands at just under $4,500.

Rep. Linda Black, R-Park Hills, is also planning on introducing a bill that would fine poachers $3,500 for killing an elk or black bear.